Koku Anyidoho endorses transformation of National Cathedral

Founder and CEO of the Atta Mills Institute for Transformational Development, Koku Anyidoho, has thrown his support behind the Mahama administration’s decision to convert the stalled National Cathedral project into a National Cultural Convention Center under its proposed 24-hour economic plan.

In an exclusive interview, the respected public policy advocate described the move as a pragmatic and forward-thinking decision that puts the national interest above partisan politics.

“For me, whether it is a National Cathedral or a National Cultural Center, once the structure carries the national flag and serves the people of Ghana, I am fully in support of it,” Anyidoho stated.

The announcement has sparked widespread debate, especially given the National Democratic Congress’s (NDC) earlier fierce opposition to the National Cathedral project while in opposition.

The NDC's decision to re-purpose the project while in government has raised eyebrows, with some accusing the party of hypocrisy.

However, Anyidoho defended the change in stance, noting that ensuring the structure does not become yet another abandoned project is a victory for national development.

“That prime land is too strategic for our national spatial development. I’m simply relieved that the project will remain a national asset and not be handed over to private developers. That alone makes this decision worth supporting,” he emphasised.

Reflecting on the legacy of the late President John Evans Atta Mills, Anyidoho recalled his former boss’s belief in national cohesion.

“As we approach July 24, which marks 13 years since we lost President Atta Mills, I remember his words: there is more that unites us than divides us. I see this decision in that light, it is about bringing the nation together, whether through religion or culture,” he said.

He added that while the previous administration sought to use the project to promote religious unity, the current administration’s focus on cultural unity is equally valid, so long as the project serves the supreme interest of Ghana.

When asked about criticisms that the NDC is now embracing a project it once harshly opposed, Anyidoho dismissed the idea that such political shifts are inherently negative.

“I leave those who want to play petty partisan politics to continue,” he remarked.

“I choose to look at this issue from a nationalistic, patriotic, and statesmanlike perspective. As long as the project is not left to rot and continues under the Ghanaian flag, I pray it is completed for the benefit of current and future generations.”

Anyidoho stressed that adjusting policy positions based on the realities of governance should not be viewed as weakness but as strength, rooted in honesty and practical leadership.

“The petty partisan politics is killing this dear country of ours,” he warned.

“Changing minds when faced with new realities is not a sign of failure. It’s a sign of responsible governance based on facts, not fiction.”

With the project now set to serve as a National Cultural Convention Center, Anyidoho’s comments underscore the importance of unity, continuity, and national focus in policymaking reminding all Ghanaians that the true measure of leadership lies not in political point-scoring, but in building legacies that serve the collective good.